About

K K Nishad is an Indian playback singer, composer, and stage performer known for his significant contributions to Malayalam cinema. Trained in both Hindustani and Carnatic classical music traditions, Nishad has garnered acclaim for his versatile vocal abilities, including proficiency in ghazal singing. He is a recipient of the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award for Best Male Singer, highlighting his excellence in the field.

Nishad's career spans international performances, with engagements in concerts and stage shows across various countries. He has collaborated with renowned musicians and contributed to numerous prestigious stages globally, enhancing cultural exchanges through his music.

Career:

Nishad's passion for music began in his early years, guided by his father into the intricate realms of Carnatic music. His musical journey expanded under the mentorship of Chelannoor Sukumaran Bhagavathar, Shivan, Sreedharan Mundangad, and Palai C. K. Ramachandran, followed by ongoing training with Perumbavoor G. Raveendranath. Alongside Carnatic, he explored Hindustani music, learning initially from Sri Nalin Moolji and Fayaz Khan, and currently from Surmani Dattathreya Velankar. He was also trained under Mridangam stalwarts Sivan and Sumod.

Nishad's career took flight after winning Kairali TV's Gandharva Sangeetham (Seniors), propelling him into playback singing. He made his debut in 2002 with "Manassukal Thammil [Puthooram] ..." in Rajasenan's Malayalam film Nakshathrakkannulla Rajakumaran Avanundoru Rajakumari, composed by Benny Kannan. His voice resonates across genres, collaborating with notable composers like Ouseppachan, Sharreth, M. Jayachandran, M M Keeravani, Ramesh Narayan, G. V. Prakash Kumar, and Bijibal.

In 2021, Nishad ventured into composing with the single "Mahar." His performances have graced global stages from the USA to Australia, sharing platforms with luminaries such as K S Chithra, SP Balasubrahmanyum, Sadhana Sargam, Sujatha Mohan, Vasundhara Das, Hariharan, Shanker Mahadevan, and P Jayachandran. Nishad's journey as a musician and performer continues to captivate audiences worldwide, blending traditional roots with contemporary expression.

Personal life:

Nishad was born in Kozhikode to T. N. Krishnankutty, a retired PWD engineer, and Saradha M. V., a homemaker. Nishad had an interest for music at a young age. His sister, Athira is also a singer.

Throughout his school and college years in Kerala, Nishad actively participated in annual youth festivals, where he showcased his talents in Mappilappattu and Kadhaprasangam, earning acclaim for his musical abilities.

Academically, Nishad holds Master's and B.Ed degrees in Mathematics. Before pursuing a career in music, he served as a Guest Lecturer at Devagari St. Josephs College in Kozhikode.

Nishad is married to Savija, and they have two sons, Adithya and Ayaan.